SKA South Africa Bursaries Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on SKA South Africa Bursaries Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student passionate about science, technology, engineering, and astronomy? The SKA South Africa Bursaries 2026/2027 provide an exciting opportunity for aspiring scientists and engineers to further their studies while contributing to one of the world’s most ambitious scientific projects. As part of an international initiative to build the world’s largest radio telescope, SKA South Africa is committed to investing in the next generation of researchers, innovators, and problem-solvers.
The SKA bursary programme supports students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in fields such as astrophysics, computer science, data science, mathematics, electronics, and engineering disciplines. These bursaries not only cover tuition fees and study-related costs but also provide mentorship, research opportunities, and exposure to world-class facilities. With South Africa at the forefront of groundbreaking scientific discovery, recipients of the SKA bursaries gain access to skills and experiences that can position them for careers locally and globally.
By applying for the SKA South Africa Bursaries 2026/2027, students take the first step toward joining an elite network of scientists and engineers shaping the future of astronomy and technology.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading for details on eligibility requirements, supported study fields, application guidelines, and closing dates for the SKA South Africa Bursaries 2026/2027.
About SKA SA / SARAO
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), previously known as SKA SA, is managed by the National Research Foundation (NRF).
SARAO is leading one of the most ambitious science projects in the world – the creation of the largest multi-radio telescope ever built. This groundbreaking facility will provide insights that deepen our understanding of the universe. The telescope will be located across South Africa and 8 other African countries, as well as Australia, making it a truly international collaboration.
Construction of SARAO began in 2026, with a planned total collection area of 1 km². The first scientific observations were scheduled for 2026. The international headquarters of the project is based in the United Kingdom.
About SKA South Africa Bursaries 2026/2027
Fields Covered
SARAO offers scholarships to support students pursuing Undergraduate and Honours studies in critical science and engineering fields. These include:
- Computer Engineering (Bachelor)
- Electrical Engineering (Bachelor)
- Electronic Engineering (Bachelor)
- Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor)
- Mechatronic Engineering (Bachelor)
- Computer Science (majoring in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics) (BSc)
- Mathematics / Applied Mathematics and Physics (BSc)
- Electronics and Physics (BSc)
- Astronomy / Astrophysics and Physics (BSc)
- NASSP (National Astrophysics and Space Science Programme) – Honours (BSc)
- Physics and Electronics / Computer Science / Astronomy / Astrophysics – Honours (BSc)
Coverage Value & Selection
Scholarships will be awarded for the following study durations:
- 4 years for first-year students
- 3 years for second-year students
- 2 years for third-year students
- 1 year for Honours or fourth-year students
The scholarship value is currently R140 000 per annum, although this amount may change each year.
Recipients in Honours or fourth year must also attend an annual mid-year workshop during university holidays.
Applicants who are selected will be notified by 11 November 2026. If you do not receive feedback, your application should be regarded as unsuccessful.
Eligibility Requirements for SKA South Africa Bursaries Application 2026/2027
To qualify for the SARAO scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Must be studying (or planning to study) in one of the approved fields listed above
- Must have achieved a minimum of 70% in Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric, OR a minimum average of 60% in tertiary studies
- Must have read and agreed to the terms outlined in the SARAO Undergraduate and Honours Scholarship Guide (.pdf)
How to Apply for SKA South Africa Bursaries 2026/2027
Applications must be completed online via: https://skagrants.nrf.ac.za/FPF/
You will need to register an account before you can log in and submit your application.
When applying, ensure you upload the following required documents (certified copies):
- ID document
- Matric certificate
- Latest tertiary results
- Proof of university registration
Note: Missing documents will result in your application being disregarded.
Closing Dates for SKA South Africa Bursaries Application 2026/2027
Application Deadline: 8 August
Applications submitted after this date will not be considered. Please apply before the closing date to ensure your application is reviewed.
Contact Details of South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO)
For any queries related to this scholarship programme, please contact SARAO directly:
- Contact Person: Annah Mashemola
- Email: amashemola@ska.ac.za
- Telephone: 011 442 2434
